Persistence, mentors, and learning by doing run through two new conversations on Chachi Loves Everybody. Former CBS Radio President and CEO Dan Mason and Salem Media CEO Dave Santrella both trace their paths from early radio dreams to the C-Suite.
Benztown released the two episodes of its original podcast, hosted by Benztown President Dave “Chachi” Denes, this week.
In the first episode, Mason talks about his philosophy of making big market stations sound small, becoming a programmer GM before being named President of Cook Inlet, and integrating cultures and brands through mergers at CBS. Mason also discusses stepping back at CBS and returning to help struggling stations and launch CBS Sports Radio and digital platforms, his move from CEO to sports broadcaster and horse racing analyst, investing in VSiN and selling to DraftKings, his involvement in the Broadcasters Foundation of America, and advice for the next generation of broadcasters.
In his episode, Santrella looks back on a career that began as a high school radio DJ in the Chicago area and grew through sales, station leadership, and executive roles. He shares how early mentors shaped his work ethic, why he puts clients’ needs ahead of a sale, and how a move to Salem allowed him to align his professional skills with his faith.
Both episodes are available on all major podcast platforms.
